Praise of A Queen of Gilded Horns:
A 2021 Kirkus Best Book
★ “Joy’s writing is exemplary; a strong plot, even pacing, and character growth (not only Eva’s) all lead up to an ending that should satisfy even the pickiest readers . . . A strong and satisfying conclusion.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
★ “At its core, this story dives deep into the themes of family, belonging, identity, and sibling rivalry. These themes are adeptly blended with a fast-paced plot and incredible world building…The stakes are incredibly high in this stunning conclusion to the duology. Highly recommended for all collections.” —School Library Journal, starred review
“Tensions are high in this sequel and Joy’s language is just as melodious, her world-building just as spell-binding . . . There’s no denying Joy’s talent, and readers will bask in the sisters’ character arcs and the book’s gratifying ending.” —Booklist
Praise for A River of Royal Blood:
★ ”Joy’s debut has all the trappings of a riveting fantasy novel: enviable world building, elements of magic, and scintillating glimpses of a powerful backstory…not to mention a slow-burning romance sure to get readers swooning…Gripping political intrigue and cinematic action.” —Booklist, starred review
“A sibling rivalry like nothing you’ve ever read before. Joy weaves a dark yet delicate treatise on race, heritage, and power whilst never losing that addictive ‘just one more chapter’ allure. I devoured it in one sitting!” —Natasha Ngan, New York Times bestselling author of Girls of Paper and Fire
“A dark and bloody delight of a debut, Amanda Joy’s A River of Royal Blood is a seductive tapestry of extraordinary magick delving into the terrifying lengths we will go to claim our destiny.” —Dhonielle Clayton, New York Times bestselling author of The Belles
“Joy creates a complex, intriguing fantasy world. . . [Readers] will enjoy exciting fight scenes and a variety of abilities reminiscent of Kristin Cashore’s Graceling trilogy.” —The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
“A dark and complex fantasy of bloodlust and rich imagination. . . Fascinating characters, both regal and warrior-like, fill the narrative, and the pageantry is richly detailed in a swirling cacophony of colors, dance, and swordplay…This first book in a series is riveting…[and] will leave readers wanting more.” —School Library Connection
